Paris2Nice cyclists get on their bikes

AU REVOIR DUBLIN, BONJOUR PARIS

Dublin, Ireland: After months of tough training and sore limbs finally the day has come for a group of 65 dedicated men and women to get on their bikes to help raise funds for Special Olympics and Cerebral Palsy Ireland. The Special Olympics Paris2Nice cyclists are in France for the 6 day cycle challenge in aid of Special Olympics and Cerebral Palsy Ireland.

700kms of tough terrain will be covered. Cycling champion Stephen Roche will join the group in Nice for the final leg to show his support for Special Olympics.

ON ROUTE TO €500,000

So far the group has raised a staggering €450,000. The target of €500,000 is well in sight!

The support of Stephen Roche will provide a significant boost to the Paris2Nice cyclists who will be in the saddle up to 6 hours a day from Saturday Sept 29th through to Thursday October 4th.

2012 marks the second year for the Paris2Nice Charity Cycle Challenge and its most successful year to date with a record number of cyclists recruited and funds raised.

“I am really looking forward to encouraging the cyclists over the finish line,” says Stephen Roche. “I am very familiar with the Paris2Nice route and know how challenging it is, particularly for those cyclists who are opting to conquer the 25km ascent to Mount Ventoux. It is always wonderful to come together with other cycling enthusiasts to use the joy and power of cycling to help transform people’s lives”.

SAFE JOURNEY

No punctures - yet!

“Everyone at Special Olympics wishes the group a safe and enjoyable cycle and we cannot thank them enough for all that they have achieved so far and for what they have raised for Special Olympics and Cerebral Palsy”- Mary Davis, Managing Director Special Olympics Europe Eurasia.

STEPHEN ROCHE

Stephen Roche (yellow jersey) with the Paris2Nice at a training session in August.

“We are thrilled that Stephen Roche is supporting us. Celebrations will be even bigger now in Nice on October 4th as we applaud the achievements of our cyclists and for being so successful in raising funds. We will also take the opportunity to mark the 25th anniversary of Stephen’s outstanding achievement in 1987 when he won the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia and the World Championship.”

FUNDS MEAN OPPORTUNITIES

The Paris2Nice cycle challenge will provide opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and cerebral palsy throughout Ireland and Europe.

Funds raised will be used to purchase much needed equipment, transport, and coaching development as well going towards helping to recruit more athletes for Special Olympics and Cerebral Palsy clubs across Ireland.